Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office Hosts Annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ Event

The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office held its annual Shop with a Cop event this past Sunday at Bomgaars in Forest City, bringing holiday cheer and smiles to children from across Winnebago County.

The annual outing paired local law enforcement officers with area youth for a day of shopping and positive interaction, creating memories that will last well beyond the holiday season. Organizers described the event as a tremendous success and one of the most rewarding days of the year.

“This was truly a fantastic day and so much fun for everyone involved,” the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “Seeing all the smiling faces and getting to have positive interaction with kids from all across Winnebago County truly makes this one of the best and most memorable days of the year.”

The Sheriff’s Office expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many businesses, service clubs, and individuals who donated financially and supported the program, including contributions through the agency’s No Shave November fundraiser contest.

Special thanks were extended to the Forest City Police Department, Forest City Ambulance Service, Forest City Rotary Club, Bomgaars, Shooterz Restaurant, Hy-Vee, and NextEra Energy for their generous donation to the program. Organizers emphasized that the continued support from the community year after year makes the event possible.

The Shop with a Cop program aims to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and local youth while spreading holiday joy to families in need.

The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Office closed by wishing the community a Merry Christmas and thanking everyone who helped make the event a success.